Deer Valley torchlight parade is a long-standing tradition

Procession will take place Dec. 30

The annual Torchlight Parade at Deer Valley that is held every Dec. 30 is presented by the resorts ski school. (Park Record file photo)

Traditions are a big part of Park City during holidays and one of them is the annual torchlight parade at Deer Valley Resort that takes place the night before New Year's Eve.

Emily Summers, communications director for the resort, said the procession, which will weave down the Big Stick and Wide West runs, is organized by the Deer Valley Ski School.

"Everyone who participates in the parade are all Deer Valley employee volunteers," Summers explained. "Anyone who works at the resort can be part of it, and I want to say there are anywhere from 75 to 100 people who are part of the parade."

Sometimes, if those who watch the parade are lucky enough, the Deer Valley Synchro team does a fun little routine.

"They have done something in the past couple of years," Summers said. "We used to have a competitive Synchro team, but these days we just keep the tradition and team alive with these special events. It's pretty cool and a beautiful experience."

The parade starts at 6 p.m. behind Snow Park Lodge.

"Before it begins, we will serve complementary cider and cookies," Summers said. "Plenty of free parking at the Snow Park Lodge lot and people can just walk right up from their cars. And there is also a free bus stop in front of the lodge."

The parade itself isn't very long, so people should arrive early, she said.

"The best thing to do is if they are skiing at Deer Valley that day is to take a break with some hot chocolate, appetizers and live music with pianist Mike Rogers at the EBS Lounge in the Snow Park Lodge, which will be open until 6 p.

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m.," Summers said. "The lounge is right where they would be able to see the parade perfectly."

Or people can arrive around 5:30 p.m. and enjoy the snacks.

"The parade isn't only a great thing to see, but it also brings our employees together," Summers said. "Our staff is comprised of people who live in the area or have come to work here seasonally from all around the country and beyond. This event gives them a chance to do something together during the holidays."

Summers remembers her first torchlight parade a few years ago.

"I had just learned how to ski and didn't know what to expect, but found it was a wonderful way to experience the mountains in the evening and mingle with some of the guests and employees," she said. "We keep this tradition alive because we know our guests choose to spend the holiday season with us and we try to give them a special experience to make their stay a little more exciting and memorable."

Deer Valley Resort will present its annual torchlight parade behind the Snow Park Lodge on Monday, Dec. 30, at 6 p.m. Free cookies and hot chocolate will be handed out at the Snow Park plaza from 5:30 p.m. Admission is free. For more information, visit www.deervalley.com.